🏷️ Basic Information

Make:

Mercedes-Benz

Model:

190

Year:

1984

Engine:

601 (Diesel)

Model Generation:

W201 (First Generation)

Chassis Code:

W201

Engine Code:

OM601

👋 Introduction

Vehicle Segment:

Compact Executive Car (CD-segment)

Target Audience:

Buyers seeking reliable, well-built, and technologically advanced (for its time) compact Mercedes-Benz vehicles.

Primary Competitors:

BMW 3 Series (E30), Audi 80/90, Saab 900, Volvo 240 Series.

Engineering Philosophy:

Mercedes-Benz's renowned build quality, safety, and longevity applied to a more compact and accessible platform.

Powertrain Emphasis:

Emphasis on durable and efficient diesel engines like the OM601.

📋 Manual Details

Manual Type:

Service and Repair Manual

Language:

English

Format:

Digital (PDF)

Applicability Notes:

Primarily focused on the OM601 diesel engine variant of the 1984 Mercedes-Benz 190 (W201), but likely contains general chassis and body information applicable to the entire model range for that year.

Estimated Page Count:

Extensive (Specific count not provided, but described as comprehensive)

📖 Manual Coverage

Engine Systems:

Diesel fuel injection, lubrication, cooling, intake and exhaust, engine diagnostics, engine mechanical (disassembly, assembly, overhaul), timing systems, emission controls.

Drivetrain Systems:

Manual and automatic transmission (service, overhaul, fluid changes), clutch, driveshafts, differential, axles.

Chassis Systems:

Suspension (front and rear), steering system, brakes (hydraulic, disc/drum, ABS if applicable), wheels and tires.

Electrical Systems:

Battery, charging system (alternator), starting system, ignition system (if applicable to diesel variants), lighting, instruments, gauges, wiring diagrams, fuse/relay locations, body electrical components.

Body And Interior:

Body panel repair, doors, windows, interior trim, upholstery, climate control (HVAC), seat mechanisms, exterior trim, glass replacement, paint and collision information.

Maintenance Procedures:

Regular scheduled maintenance, fluid level checks and top-ups, filter replacements (oil, fuel, air), belt inspections and replacement, spark plug (if applicable) and glow plug replacement, lubrication points.

Repair Procedures:

Engine rebuilding, head gasket replacement, fuel injector servicing, brake pad/shoe replacement, suspension component replacement, steering rack overhaul, transmission rebuild, electrical component diagnosis and replacement.

Diagnostic Procedures:

Troubleshooting common problems, fault code interpretation (if applicable to era), testing electrical circuits, pressure testing fuel systems, compression testing.

Bodywork Procedures:

Panel alignment, rust repair techniques, door and window adjustment, weatherstripping replacement, bumper repair/replacement.

HVAC Procedures:

Blower motor replacement, evaporator core servicing, heater core replacement, refrigerant system diagnosis (if applicable), vacuum line routing and repair.

Diagnostic Capability:

Advanced diagnostics for mechanical and electrical systems, including detailed troubleshooting flowcharts and symptom analysis.

Rebuild Instructions:

Comprehensive instructions for complete engine and transmission rebuilds, including torque specifications and clearance measurements.

Component Identification:

Detailed diagrams and descriptions for all major and minor vehicle components.

Electrical Diagrams:

Comprehensive, detailed wiring diagrams for all vehicle electrical systems.

📊 Manual Specifications

File Type:

PDF

Searchability:

Searchable text within the PDF document

Print Readability:

Designed for clear printing of text and diagrams

Digital Binding:

N/A (Digital download)

Digital Paper Type:

N/A (Digital download)

⚙️ Engine Specifications

Engine Code:

OM601

Engine Type:

Inline-4 Cylinder Diesel

Displacement:

2.3 Liters (2299 cc)

Horsepower Output:

Approximately 70-75 HP (depending on specific tuning/market)

Torque Output:

Approximately 100-105 lb-ft (depending on specific tuning/market)

Fuel Injection System:

Bosch Inline Injection Pump

Fuel Type:

Diesel

Aspirated Or Turbocharged:

Naturally Aspirated (Turbocharged variants existed for other models/years)

Block Material:

Cast Iron

Head Material:

Aluminum Alloy

🔧 Transmission

Transmission Type 1:

4-speed Manual

Transmission Type 2:

4-speed Automatic (722.4)

Transmission Fluid Type:

MB 236.2 (Manual) / MB 236.7 (Automatic - e.g., Dexron II)

📐 Dimensions

Length:

Approx. 4420 mm (174 in)

Width:

Approx. 1690 mm (66.5 in)

Height:

Approx. 1370 mm (53.9 in)

Curb Weight:

Approx. 1250-1300 kg (2755-2866 lbs)

Gross Vehicle Weight Rating:

Approx. 1700-1750 kg

🛡️ Safety Features

Crash Safety Design:

Designed with Mercedes-Benz's pioneering safety cage, crumple zones, and attention to structural integrity.

Brake System:

Front disc brakes, rear drum brakes (later models may feature rear discs or ABS)

Steering Column Design:

Collapsible steering column

Seat Belts:

Standard three-point seat belts

💡 Technology Features

Audio System:

Factory-installed AM/FM radio, optional cassette player. Limited connectivity by modern standards.

Antilock Braking System:

Optional on some models, becoming more common in later W201 iterations.

Diagnostic Ports:

OBD-I or proprietary Mercedes-Benz diagnostic connectors (depending on exact production date and ECU).

🔧 Maintenance

Oil Change Interval:

Typically every 5,000-10,000 km or 6-12 months, depending on driving conditions and oil type.

Fuel Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 20,000-30,000 km

Air Filter Replacement:

Recommended every 15,000-20,000 km

Engine Oil Specification:

API CD or ACEA B3/B4 specification, SAE 15W-40 or 10W-40 for diesel engines (refer to manual for exact specification).

Coolant Specification:

Mercedes-Benz approved coolant (e.g., G48 or equivalent) with a 50/50 mix with distilled water.

Brake Fluid Specification:

DOT 3 or DOT 4

Diesel Specific Issues:

Glow plug failure, injector pump issues, potential for injector nozzle clogging, vacuum leaks in the diesel system, early diesel emissions control system quirks.

General Wear Items:

Front suspension components (ball joints, bushings), aging rubber hoses and seals, fuel lines, exhaust system corrosion, heater control valve failure, electrical connector corrosion.

📚 Vehicle History

Manufacturer Legacy:

Mercedes-Benz, founded in 1926, is synonymous with luxury, engineering excellence, and automotive innovation.

Introduction Year:

1982

Model Designation:

W201: The 'Baby Benz', designed to be a more accessible, compact entry into the Mercedes-Benz lineup.

Engines Offered:

Initially launched with gasoline engines, diesel variants like the OM601 became popular for their durability and fuel efficiency.

Production Period:

1982-1993

Manufacturing Locations:

Germany (primarily Sindelfingen)

🏆 Awards & Recognition

Critical Acclaim:

Widely praised for its build quality, driving dynamics (for its class), and safety, establishing Mercedes-Benz in the compact executive segment.

Durability Perception:

The OM601 diesel engine, in particular, is renowned for its exceptional durability and longevity, often exceeding 300,000 miles with proper maintenance.